Avoiding Misplaced Modifiers

A misplaced modifier is a word, phrase, or clause that is improperly separated from the word it modifies or describes. Sentences with this error sound awkward, confusing, and ridiculous. Look at the examples below to see how to fix these confounding sentence errors.

Sentence with Misplaced Modifier

Opening the creaking door and crossing the threshold, the first two steps produces the squeaking cried from the worn, wooden floors which strains to hold the weight.

Continuing down the hallway, a familiar but intrusive scent invades the nostrils.

Walking further on the moaning floor, drops of water escape from a defective water-pipe.

Problem

Steps do not open doors or cross thresholds.

Scents do not continue down the hallway.

Drops of water do not walk.

Corrected Sentence

Opening the creaking door and crossing the threshold, the soldier steps down two, wooden steps, which squeak and cry as if they are straining from carrying a heavy load.OR Past the door and threshold, two wooden steps creak from the weight of soldiers’ boots.

As the soldier walks down the hallway, an intrusive scent invades his nostrils.OR A strong, intrusive scent permeates the hallway.

From a defective water pipe hidden above a stain on the ceiling, drops of water drip onto the spongy floor.